Today we remember Víctor Jara, renowned Chilean musician and member of the Chilean Communist Party, tortured and executed by the US-backed Pinochet dictatorship on this day in 1973. His torturers crushed his hands and mocked him, forcing him to sing and play the guitar. To this day, Jara's music inspires people throughout Latin America and beyond to fight for the right to live in peace.

Watch also: Chile 1973: Reform or Revolution?

The workers saw the coup coming. They demanded that Salvador Allende arm them so they could defend their country.

He refused. Days later the fascists seized power and killed thousands.

WATCH NOW. Chile 1973: Reform or Revolution?